The match has been arranged in Boston to try to capitalise on the city's large Irish community and organisers have said they believe there is the potential to attract up to 30,000 spectators.

The game is set to take place at the Gillette Stadium and according to reports will be played for the Independence Cup. If successful, it is hoped the match will be the springboard for introducing a professional league on the East Coast with plans to expand that further if support is forthcoming.

A return fixture in London is intended a week to a fortnight later although that is not expected to feature the London Irish as the opposition.

USA Rugby's CEO Nigel Melville told the Bleacher Report: "The organisers have been talking about this for some time. The Premiership club wants a credible team to play against and, as far as we are aware, the US team will be composed of professional players from overseas and a few local players that will be identified as potential rugby players."